Kazakhstan's regulated betting sector experienced a significant downturn in the first half of 2026, with interest among users falling by nearly 70%. A recent report by Blask attributes this decline to regulatory changes that disrupted payment processing for licensed industry participants.
The introduction of the Unified Betting Accounting System (ESU) and the mandatory adoption of NomadPay were particularly impactful. Numerous betting operators struggled to comply with the new legislative requirements, leading banks to suspend deposit and withdrawal services for most licensed players. As a result, some gamblers turned to unlicensed options while law enforcement began enforcing the regulations actively.
These adjustments are part of Kazakhstan's broader strategy aimed at reinforcing the gambling sector and enhancing its regulatory framework. The government has already broadened self-exclusion options, intensified oversight of illegal gambling transactions, implemented stricter compliance requirements, and heightened financial controls within the industry.
Despite the evident downturn, betting continues to be the leading form of gambling in the country. Kazakhstan's gambling activities are regulated per the Gambling Law, which saw amendments in May 2026. These updates mandate that licensed bookmakers must process electronic bets and payouts via a centralized accounting system, enabling authorities to monitor transactions, verify player identities, and identify unlicensed gambling operations.
